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Assess the impact of socially-sensitive research in psychology. - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 3
Question 6
Assess the impact of socially-sensitive research in psychology.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Assess the impact of socially-sensitive research in psychology. - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 3
Step 1
AO1: Outline Key Studies and Concepts
Answer
Socially-sensitive research refers to studies that may have social implications or consequences, particularly regarding stigmatized groups. Such research plays a crucial role in understanding behavior and can contribute positively or negatively to societal attitudes.
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Milgram’s Obedience Experiment: This study highlighted how social authority influences individual behavior, providing insights into obedience that can help in understanding atrocities, such as those committed during the Holocaust.
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Raine et al. (1997): This study investigated biological differences, comparing murderers to non-murderers, which can inform discussions on human rights abuses and criminal behavior.
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Caspi et al. (2002): This research explored the interplay between genetics and environmental factors in antisocial behavior, further emphasizing the need for careful interpretation to avoid stigmatization.
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Research into Mental Health Treatments: Studies have shown that aversion therapy can be controversial, especially when discussing treatments for homosexuality, which highlight ethical considerations in socially-sensitive research.
Step 2
AO3: Evaluate the Impacts
Answer
The impact of socially-sensitive research can be assessed through various lenses, including ethical, societal, and scientific perspectives.
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Ethical Considerations: Socially-sensitive research must navigate ethical dilemmas, balancing societal benefits with the risk of harm or stigmatization.
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Impact on Policy and Treatment: Research can lead to changes in public policy, influencing how conditions like mental health are treated and understood in society, as seen with the decriminalization of homosexuality and reduced stigma associated with mental health therapies.
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Potential for Misinterpretation: Studies, if misinterpreted, could reinforce negative stereotypes, demonstrating the need for careful communication of findings. For example, findings on genetic predispositions related to behavior can lead to genetic determinism arguments.
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Social Responsibility: Researchers have a social responsibility to ensure their findings do not contribute to societal harm and to promote informed discussions around sensitive issues, which can be pivotal for community healing and understanding.